The Author's Dilemma

June 25, 2022

 

 

I’ve been reading a number of series lately. They each have a recurring theme: The darkness of human nature, a brooding protagonist scarred by some earlier experience, or philosophies that make you smile and feel good about living.

 

Unfortunately, after a while all the philosophy and the brooding become repetitious.

 

But here’s the thing: If the first book you pick up is in the middle of a series, you won’t be bored with the repetition, you’ll be captivated.

 

So what’s an author to do? Grab the newbies or bore the faithful?

 

I’m hoping at least one of them finds a way to navigate this Scylla and Charybdis of the publishing world.

 

 

 

But Will the IRS Agree?

June 27, 2022

 

I’ve finally given up on my local paper. After years of paying for daily delivery, and wrangling over said delivery pretty much daily, I’ve decided to cut the cord.

 

I do believe in supporting the press, and keeping alive alternatives to online drivel and misinformation.

 

But at this point it’s not a subscription, it’s more of a charitable contribution.

 

 

Who's Cleaning Up the Mess?

 

June 20, 22

 

North Korea keeps test-firing missiles into the ocean.

 

I assume that they’re leaving them there.

 

I feel bad for the surrounding ocean life. 

 

(Of course, if you’re bent on obliterating the world, you won’t really care about ruining the environment, will you?)